The All-Star Wave of Electric Racing

Image source: Birgit Dieryck / Spacesuit Media
Didier Drogba champions electric powerboat racing's African debut with Team Drogba.

When Didier Drogba isn’t reminiscing about Champions League glory, he’s orchestrating a green revolution on water. The Chelsea legend now co-owns Team Drogba in the E1 Series, the Formula E of marine sports, alongside A-listers like LeBron James, Rafael Nadal, and Will Smith. This weekend, Lagos becomes the first African city to host these hydrofoiling electric raceboats, blending cutting-edge tech with continental pride.

Africa’s Waters Take Center Stage

"This isn’t just racing – it’s a cultural bridge," Drogba told BBC Sport Africa. The Lagos Grand Prix (Oct 4-5) will see nine teams battle across Nigeria’s iconic lagoon, combining 75 mph thrills with environmental advocacy. Each $3.5 million RaceBird vessel leaves zero emissions while gliding on patented hydrofoils.

Key innovations driving E1’s mission:

• SeaGuardian™ water quality sensors
• 100% renewable energy charging stations
• Gender-balanced pilot teams (1 male + 1 female per crew)

The WhatsApp Warriors

Behind the scenes, a star-studded owner group chat turns fierce. "Rafa [Nadal] plays mind games like he’s at match point!" laughed Drogba, revealing how the tennis great trash-talks between races. With DJ Steve Aoki and Marc Anthony adding showbiz flair, E1 merges sport and spectacle.

Sailing Toward a $675M Horizon

E1’s roadmap includes:

• 2025: Ivory Coast Grand Prix in Abidjan
• 2026: First African pilot development program
• 2028: Target valuation of £500 million

"We’re creating pathways for young Africans in tech and racing," said Gabrielle Lemaire, Drogba’s business partner. The series recently partnered with Nigeria’s Green Coast Initiative to train 500 students in marine engineering.

"This is the new era of motorsport – where legacy meets sustainability," Drogba concluded, as Team Drogba’s 19-year-old British phenom Oban Duncan prepared to make history on African waters.